Biochemistry Services

This page has been automatically translated from English. MSDH has not reviewed this translation and is not responsible for any inaccuracies.

The Biochemistry Section conducts testing on biological fluids for the identification of chemical agents. Human exposure to chemical agents can occur accidentally or through an intentional act of terrorism.

Blood Lead Analysis

The Biochemistry Division also performs blood lead analysis on children. Instrumentation used in this analysis, the ICP-MS, is the same instrumentation used in chemical preparedness. All blood lead results are reported to the Mississippi Lead Poisoning Prevention and Healthy Homes Program daily.

Chemical Threat Response Analysis

As the only Laboratory Response Network Chemical Threat (LRN-C) level 2 laboratory in the state, the biochemistry section can detect evidence of a chemical event through partnership with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Current in-state analytical capabilities include the following:

Heavy Metals in Urine by ICP-MS

Blood Metals by ICP-MS

Arsenic in Urine by ICP-MS

Cyanide in Whole Blood by GC-MS

Tetramine in Urine by GC-MS

Volatile Organic Compounds in Whole Blood by GC-MS

Organophosphate Nerve Agents in Urine by LC/MS/MS

Metabolic Toxins Panel in Urine by LC/MS/MS

Tetranitromethane in Urine by LC/MS/MS

Abrine/Ricinine in Urine by LC/MS/MS

All requests for chemical threat response analysis must be approved by the State Epidemiologist prior to specimen submission.

Laboratory Services Requests

The guidelines for sample collection, transport, and ordering can be obtained from the Laboratory Services Guide. All requests for clinical testing must be made by a licensed physician or nurse practitioner.